The Philippine Marcos government’s economic team has not yet discussed banning a ban in the country A potential ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), although steps are currently being taken to address the possible economic impact of their expulsion.
According to a report by the Philippine News Agency on July 9, the leader Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan of the government's economic team said they have not yet discussed the issue at their level. However, Balisacan has previously expressed support for banning POGOs, citing the industry's high social costs that put the country's reputation at risk.
Balisacan said at a Palace briefing: "POGO society The costs are pretty high. We're trying to position our country as a legitimate place to do business, so the last thing we want is to have a reputation that we're a haven for criminals." >
According to data from Philippine gaming operator and regulator PAGCOR, 2023 POGO (now known as IGL) revenue reached Php 3.45 billion (USD 60.87 million) in 2017, and it is estimated that this revenue may rise steadily to Php 10.22 billion (USD 18.026 million) by 2027.
While the government’s revenue from POGOs may be significant, Balisacan Believe that the social consequences outweigh the economic benefits. "The social costs are very high. We think it may not be worth the revenue because if we succeed in creating these jobs we will gain more than we lose," he told the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
On the other hand, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said that his department Steps are already being taken to address the "negative impacts" of a potential POGO ban. Laguesma revealed that they are currently “profiling” workers in the industry in preparation for the transition.
I can’t say we are ready, But we are preparing. We anticipate the possible negative impacts, which is why we are doing the profiling. We cannot actually wait until the day it closes, and we should make the transition."
In a series of raids, various crimes related to the industry were revealed. Calls to ban POGOs have grown in the wake of criminal activities, including torture, kidnapping and other illegal actions.
Finance Minister Ralph Recto has also stated that due to these problems, he Will recommend to the President to stop POGO operations.
